Brookhaven

Slip-slidin’ away! There are few better ways to stay cool on Long Island this summer than by heading down a slippery water slide, splashing around in a refreshing swimming pool, or getting drenched at a water park. That's why we invite you to check out our list of the hottest spots on Long Island where kids and adults can stay cool, even on the most sweltering days. Check websites for rates and hours. Town pools are usually open to nonresidents, but they might have to pay a higher entry fee.

They might be too young for the playground, but Long Island babies (and their caregivers) can still enjoy our great parks.

Of course, not all parks are created equal, especially when it comes to taking your baby out for fresh air. Some parks are aesthetically beautiful, but the trails are rocky and covered in sand, making pushing a stroller nearly impossible. Others are smoothly paved, but have nothing for you and your little one to look at. From Nassau to Suffolk, here are our picks for Long Island walks with the best terrain and intriguing scenery—perfect for a day out with baby.

Where can you dig for dinosaur bones, pet a live ball python, and try hands-on science experiments? The Long Island Science Center, of course! And now all of the fun and learning can be had a bit farther west, in Rocky Point.

Got a budding scientist on your hands? For more science-related fun, check out these museums and classes.

Few places celebrate their musical heritage quite like Long Island. From rock’s Lou Reed to pop’s Ashanti and hip hop’s LL Cool J, Long Island has cultivated its own unique sound and celebrities. But even the legendary Billy Joel had to start somewhere.

Parents in Suffolk County have a number of options should their child express a musical inclination. From group clinics to at-home instruction, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite places for your developing virtuoso. See websites for current programs and pricing. Parents who’d prefer to cross the county border can see our post on music classes in Nassau. And don’t forget our Long Island Classes Guide for other after-school options.

No matter what age, little girls love to have their hair, make-up and nails done — they get a thrill from a new coat of pink polish, braids in their hair and sparkles in their eye shadow. Throw in some fashion, cake, karaoke, and dancing and you will have a birthday party fit for your little diva. If this is the type of party that will put a twinkle in your little girl's eye, look no further because we have complied a list of some of the best places that will host a spa birthday party in Suffolk County. And for more inspiration, check out our Long Island Party Guide.